Culver City was founded in 1913 by Harry Culver, a brilliant real estate developer from Nebraska who sold tract homes to "immigrants" from the Midwest. For a monthly mortgage payment, the homes included furniture, dishes, a record player, and sometimes even a Model T. In the 1920s, silent film comedy producer Hal Roach and Metro Goldwyn Mayer (MGM) built studios. By the 1930s, Culver City boasted three major film studios, including MGM, and was publicized as the "Heart of Screenland." During the 1930s through the 1940s Culver City was home to half of America's motion picture production.

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Culver City was founded in 1913 by Harry Culver, a brilliant real estate developer from Nebraska who sold tract homes to "immigrants" from the Midwest. For a monthly mortgage payment, the homes included furniture, dishes, a record player, and sometimes even a Model T. In the 1920s, silent film comedy producer Hal Roach and Metro Goldwyn Mayer (MGM) built studios. By the 1930s, Culver City boasted three major film studios, including MGM, and was publicized as the "Heart of Screenland." During the 1930s through the 1940s Culver City was home to half of America's motion picture production.

Hundreds of movies have been produced on the lots of Culver City's studios, including the Tarzan series and the original King Kong. The yellow brick road from The Wizard of Oz is still inside the lot on Stage 27 of Sony Studios. More recent films include Grease, Raging Bull, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, City Slickers, Wag the Dog and Contact. Television shows made on Culver City sets include Lassie, I Love Lucy, Batman, The Andy Griffith Show and Jeopardy!.

Hundreds of movies have been produced on the lots of Culver City's studios, including the Tarzan series and the original King Kong. The yellow brick road from The Wizard of Oz is still inside the lot on Stage 27 of Sony Studios. More recent films include Grease, Raging Bull, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, City Slickers, Wag the Dog and Contact. Television shows made on Culver City sets include Lassie, I Love Lucy, Batman, The Andy Griffith Show and Jeopardy!.

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==Get around==

==Get around==

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'''Culver CityBus''' [http://www.culvercity.org/bus] operates buses in and around Culver City.

'''Culver CityBus''' [http://www.culvercity.org/bus] operates buses in and around Culver City.

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Be aware that Culver City has placed red-light cameras throughout the city, and at $446 the fine for running a red light is one of the highest in the country. Be very aware at intersections, and when the light turns yellow, STOP!

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Be aware that Culver City has placed red-light cameras throughout the city, and at $446 the fine for running a red light is one of the highest in the country. Be very aware at intersections, and when the light turns yellow, STOP!

==See==

==See==

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* <see name="Museum of Jurassic Technology" alt="" address="9341 Venice Blvd." directions="four blocks west of Robertson Boulevard" phone="+1-310-836-6131" email="[email protected]" fax="" url="http://www.mjt.org/" hours="Th 2PM-8PM, F-Su 12PM-6PM" price="$5 suggested donation" geo="" tags="">This museum is an artistic mixture of fact and fiction, featuring weird and wonderful displays of things that never happened, next to strange but true practices of bygone years. It can be hard to distinguish between the two, and it's best not to try. An enjoyable afternoon's visit and a tribute to the weirdness of the world. An upstairs tea room serves complimentary tea and cookies. Free movie screenings hourly. This attraction is actually in the [[Los Angeles/Palms|Palms district]] of Los Angeles, although it has a Culver City address.</see>

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=== Attractions ===

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* <see name="Culver Studios" alt="" address="" directions="downtown Culver City" phone="" email="" fax="" url="" hours="" price="">Founded in 1919, fans of classic motion pictures will immediately recognize the studio's colonial mansion from the opening credits of the David O. Selznick International productions such as Gone With the Wind and Duel in the Sun. Unfortunately public tours are not available.</see>

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* <see name="Museum of Jurassic Technology" alt="" address="9341 Venice Blvd" directions="four blocks west of Robertson Blvd" phone="+1 310 836-6131" email="[email protected]" fax="" url="http://www.mjt.org" hours="Th 2PM-8PM, F-Su noon-6PM" price="$5 suggested donation" geo="" tags="">This museum is an artistic mixture of fact and fiction, featuring weird and wonderful displays of things that never happened, next to strange but true practices of bygone years. It can be hard to distinguish between the two, and it's best not to try. An enjoyable afternoon's visit and a tribute to the weirdness of the world. An upstairs tea room serves complimentary tea and cookies. Free movie screenings hourly. This attraction is actually in the [[Los Angeles/Palms|Palms district]] of Los Angeles, although it has a Culver City address.</see>

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* <see name="Star Eco Station" alt="" address="10101 West Jefferson Blvd" directions="near the intersection of Jefferson & Overland" phone="+1 310 842-8060" email="" fax="" url="http://www.ecostation.org" hours="F 1PM-5PM, Sa-Su 10AM-4PM" price="$8 for adults, $6 for children" geo="" tags="">An exotic environmental science & wildlife rescue center that is in a nondescript building, the Eco Station is a hidden attraction offering hands-on experiences with rescued tropical birds, mammals, reptiles and other critters. Most of the facility's animals are illegal shipments seized by US customs that needed a home. Hands-on tours lasting from forty-five minutes to one and a half hours (depending on crowd size and the enthusiasm of the group) leave every half hour from 10AM-3PM on weekends and seven days a week in the summer. Hands-on opportunities as part of the tour. Special community events throughout the year. Appropriate for all age learners. Infants IN strollers - FREE.</see>

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=== Public artwork ===

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* For the Child Care Center (in Palms) artist John Okulick created sculptural gates and fencing using the colors of "My First Sony" (red, yellow, blue). Margaret Nielsen designed a mural maquette for the Child Care Center (in Palms).

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* Terry Allen's sculpture "Golden Time" is a humorous comment on work after overtime. Michael Hayden's sculpture uses cutting edge materials (holographs) producing a rainbow spectrum on the sidewalk and surrounding areas of the Game Show Building. Hayden collaborated with Game Show Building architect, Steven Ehrlich, AIA, who won a National AIA Design Award for the project. (All in Culver City.)

* A giant art installation, ''Syncopation,'' by Los Angeles artist Ed Massey, was wrapped around a building on the northwest corner of Hughes Ave. and Washington Blvd. (in Palms) opposite the new Kirk Douglas Theater (in Culver City). (Massey was the artist who oversaw the wrapping of the oil well at Beverly Hills High School with panels of fabric.)

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* <see name="Star Eco Station" alt="" address="10101 West Jefferson Blvd." directions="near the intersection of Jefferson & Overland" phone="+1-310-842-8060" email="" fax="" url="http://www.ecostation.org/" hours="Fri. 1-5PM, Sat. & sun. 10AM - 4PM" price="$8 for adults, $6 for children" geo="" tags="">An exotic environmental science & wildlife rescue center that is in a nondescript building, the Eco Station is a hidden attraction offering hands-on experiences with rescued tropical birds, mammals, reptiles and other critters. Most of the facility's animals are illegal shipments seized by US customs that needed a home. Hands-on tours lasting from forty-five minutes to one and a half hours (depending on crowd size and the enthusiasm of the group) leave every half hour from 10:00AM to 3:00PM on weekends and seven days a week in the summer. Hands-on opportunities as part of the tour. Special community events throughout the year. Appropriate for all age learners. Infants IN strollers - FREE.</see>

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* Duck back into Dunn Drive to visit Los Angeles city historic-cultural landmark No. 624, the Lawrence and Martha Joseph Residence and Apartments at 3819-3827 Dunn Drive (in Palms). It's been aptly called the "Hobbit House," and people actually live in these unusual apartments.

==Do==

==Do==

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* <do name="Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook" alt="" address="6300 Hetzler Rd" directions="off of Jefferson past Duquesne" phone="" email="" fax="" url="http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=22790" hours="8AM - Sunset" price="$6 for self-parking">Over three hundred feet above the surrounding neighborhoods, this overlook provides tremendous views of the LA basin, as well as some short nature trails for those interested in native plants and animals. A self-pay parking lot is available at the top of the hill, but hearty souls can park for free along Jefferson and then walk up 315 vertical feet of switchbacks and steps. The visitor's center is open Thursday - Su 10AM - 5PM (subject to the latest budget crisis), and special events including twilight walks and bird-watching are scheduled regularly.</do>

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* <do name="Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook" alt="" address="6300 Hetzler Rd" directions="off of Jefferson past Duquesne" phone="" email="" fax="" url="http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=22790" hours="8AM-sunset daily" price="$6 for self-parking">Over three hundred feet above the surrounding neighborhoods, this overlook provides tremendous views of the LA basin, as well as some short nature trails for those interested in native plants and animals. A self-pay parking lot is available at the top of the hill, but hearty souls can park for free along Jefferson and then walk up 315 vertical feet of switchbacks and steps. The visitor's center is open Th-Su 10AM-5PM (subject to the latest budget crisis), and special events including twilight walks and bird-watching are scheduled regularly.</do>

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* <do name="Culver City Farmer's Market" alt="" address="Main Street and Bagley Avenue" directions="downtown between Venice and Culver Boulevards" phone="" url="http://www.culvercity.org/info/market.asp" hours="Held every Tuesday from 3:00 to 7:00PM" price="" lat="" long="" email="" fax="" geo="" tags="">The market offers fresh foods, flowers, crafts, and other fare. Two hours of free parking are available in downtown garages. When you walk across the alley, you are actually moving from Los Angeles to Culver City (or vice versa).</do>

* <do name="Sony Pictures Studio Tour" alt="" address="" directions="" phone="+1-310-244-8687" url="http://www.sonypicturesstudiostours.com/" hours="" price="$28 per person" lat="" long="" email="" fax="" geo="" tags="">Formerly the MGM studios, the tour leads through stages that have seen the filming of such productions as the Wizard of Oz, Men in Black, and Spider-Man. Tours are offered M-F at 9:30AM, 10:30AM, 1:30PM and 2:30PM. Reservations are recommended.</do>

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* <do name="Sony Pictures Studio Tour" alt="" address="" directions="" phone="+1 310 244-8687" url="http://www.sonypicturesstudiostours.com" hours="" price="$28 per person" lat="" long="" email="" fax="" geo="" tags="">Formerly the MGM studios, the tour leads through stages that have seen the filming of such productions as the Wizard of Oz, Men in Black, and Spider-Man. Tours are offered M-F at 9:30AM, 10:30AM, 1:30PM and 2:30PM. Reservations are recommended.</do>

==Buy==

==Buy==

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Culver City offers a bit of everything when it comes to shopping. The Westfield Malls, located just off of I-405 at Sepulveda, is a 200 store mega-mall. The district near the intersection of Washington Blvd. and La Cienaga Blvd. is a major art destination, featuring dozens of galleries. The downtown area is home to several smaller and more upscale shops, as well as the old Helms Bakery complex, now home to a variety of upscale furniture stores. And for those looking for familiar shopping establishments, major chain stores such as Target, Bed Bath & Beyond, Best Buy and Toys 'R Us are also represented within the city limits.

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Culver City offers a bit of everything when it comes to shopping. The Westfield Malls, located just off of I-405 at Sepulveda, is a 200 store mega-mall. The district near the intersection of Washington Blvd and La Cienaga Blvd is a major art destination, featuring dozens of galleries. The downtown area is home to several smaller and more upscale shops, as well as the old Helms Bakery complex, now home to a variety of upscale furniture stores. And for those looking for familiar shopping establishments, major chain stores such as Target, Bed Bath & Beyond, Best Buy and Toys 'R Us are also represented within the city limits.

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* <buy name="Westfield Fox Hills Shopping Center" alt="" address="294 Fox Hills Mall" directions="at the intersection of Slauson and Sepulveda" phone="+1-310-390-5073" email="[email protected]" fax="" url="http://westfield.com/foxhills/" hours="10AM to 9PM Monday - Friday, 10AM to 8PM Saturday, 11AM to 6PM Sunday" price="" geo="" tags="">With nearly 200 stores, Westfield is a major shopping center located close to the 405 and 90 freeways. The complex has recently undergone a major expansion and now features a Target, Best Buy, Gold's Gym and BJ's Restaurant in addition to the many smaller stores.</buy>

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* <buy name="Sorrento Italian Market" alt="" address="5518 Sepulveda Blvd." directions="" phone="+1-310-391-7654" email="" fax="" url="" hours="" price="" geo="" tags="">Owned by the former mayor (and current councilman) of Culver City, this market has a reputation as ''the'' place to go for authentic Italian grocery items on the West Side. The deli offers amazing sandwiches and the friendly family owners are more than willing to help with everything from selecting a wine to choosing a dessert.</buy>

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* <buy name="Fox Hills Shopping Center" alt="" address="294 Fox Hills Mall" directions="at the intersection of Slauson and Sepulveda" phone="+1 310 390-5073" email="[email protected]" fax="" url="http://westfield.com/foxhills" hours="M-F 10AM-9PM, Sa 10AM-8PM, Su 11AM-6PM" price="" geo="" tags="">With nearly 200 stores, The Fox Hills Mall is a major shopping center located close to the 405 and 90 freeways. The complex underwent a major expansion in 2010 and now features a Target, Best Buy, Gold's Gym and BJ's Restaurant in addition to the many smaller stores.</buy>

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* <buy name="Surfas Restaurant Supply & Gourmet Food" alt="" address="8824 National Blvd." directions="corner of Washington & National" phone="+1-310-559-4770" email="" fax="1-310-559-4983" url="http://www.surfaslosangeles.com/" hours="M-Sa 8:30AM-6:30PM, Su 10AM-6:30PM" price="" geo="" tags="">While a restaurant supply store is usually nothing to get excited about, Surfas is worth a visit for its variety of imported foods, specialty kitchen items, cooking demonstrations, and other in-store events. The shelves are stocked with any odd ingredient that a chef might need, from buffalo sausage to seaweed wraps for sushi to dozens of varieties of olive oil. The attached cafe offers a variety of sandwiches and snacks.</buy>

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* <buy name="Sorrento Italian Market" alt="" address="5518 Sepulveda Blvd" directions="" phone="+1 310 391-7654" email="" fax="" url="" hours="" price="" geo="" tags="">Owned by the former mayor (and current councilman) of Culver City, this market has a reputation as ''the'' place to go for authentic Italian grocery items on the West Side. The deli offers amazing sandwiches and the friendly family owners are more than willing to help with everything from selecting a wine to choosing a dessert.</buy>

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* <buy name="C Vault" alt="" address="8590 National Blvd." phone="+1-310-559-2435" email="" fax="1-310-559-2436" hours="M-F 10AM-5PM">Owned by the 'godfather of design' Joel Chen, C Vault is a new loft store carrying a significant and extensive collection of design, art and collectables from every era and by every designer imagineable from early 20th century via the Bauhaus to new emerging design talent. The loft has a strong spatial narrative with a series of vintage and modern room sets in which different pieces are juxtaposed so that they work and interact together. C Vault is a design lover's dream resource.</buy>

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* <buy name="C Vault" alt="" address="8590 National Blvd" phone="+1 310 559-2435" email="" fax="+1 310 559-2436" hours="M-F 10AM-5PM">Owned by the 'godfather of design' Joel Chen, C Vault is a new loft store carrying a significant and extensive collection of design, art and collectables from every era and by every designer imagineable from early 20th century via the Bauhaus to new emerging design talent. The loft has a strong spatial narrative with a series of vintage and modern room sets in which different pieces are juxtaposed so that they work and interact together. C Vault is a design lover's dream resource.</buy>

==Eat==

==Eat==

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During the past several years the downtown Culver City area has become a hotspot for restaurants; around twenty non-chain restaurants now offer everything from sushi to barbecue to Korean to organic fare. Other restaurants are spread throughout the city and include chains such as Denny's, Coco's, Jack in the Box, Taco Bell, Chipotle, and others.

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During the past several years Culver City has been gaining a reputation for excellent restaurants, with the downtown area in particular becoming home to around twenty non-chain restaurants that offer everything from sushi to barbecue to Korean to organic fare. Other restaurants are spread throughout the city in areas such as Helm's Bakery or along Washington Boulevard. For those who just need a quick bite, the standard chains are well-represented including Denny's, Coco's, Jack in the Box, Taco Bell, Chipotle, and others.

* <eat name="Tito's Tacos" alt="" address="11222 Washington Place" directions="west of Sepulveda" phone="+1-310- 391-5780" email="" fax="" url="" hours="9AM to 11:30PM daily" price="">Cheap (a full meal for under $5) and authentic Mexican food, individually prepared while you watch. You stand in line to order, then move aside to wait. Delicious and unusual. Noisy; you hear Spanish and English spoken here in equal amounts. Family-friendly. Park in the lot or under the freeway (feed the meters with dimes or quarters), not in the red cul-de-sac.</eat>

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* <eat name="Tito's Tacos" alt="" address="11222 Washington Pl" directions="west of Sepulveda" phone="+1 310 391-5780" email="" fax="" url="" hours="9AM-11:30PM daily" price="">Cheap (a full meal for under $5) and authentic Mexican food, individually prepared while you watch. You stand in line to order, then move aside to wait. Delicious and unusual. Noisy; you hear Spanish and English spoken here in equal amounts. Family-friendly. Park in the lot or under the freeway (feed the meters with dimes or quarters), not in the red cul-de-sac.</eat>

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* <eat name="Tokyo 7-7 Coffee Shop" alt="" address="3839-B Main St." directions="downtown, not accessible from the street" phone="" email="" fax="" url="" hours="" price="$3-5" geo="" tags="">Open M-Sa, this hidden diner offers what may be the lowest food prices in Los Angeles. Breakfast specials (until 11AM) are $2.10 and include eggs, bacon, and toast. A full breakfast including drink is unlikely to cost more than $4.50. The diner is not accessible from the street, but can be reached by exiting the rear of the downtown parking garage or by searching the alley behind the "Hidden Treasures" thrift shop.</eat>

* <eat name="Gaby's Mediterranean Grill" alt="" address="10445 Venice Blvd" directions="at the intersection with Motor Ave" phone="+1 310 559-1808" email="" fax="" url="" hours="Open until 1AM on weekdays and 2AM on weekends" price="Meals are between $8 and $13" geo="" tags="">Reasonably priced and very tasty Lebanese restaurant. Seating is in an outdoor patio complete with hookahs, heat lamps, candles, and a bustling crowd that mixes young hipsters with Lebanese locals. Service is friendly and the place stays busy until closing.</eat>

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* <eat name="Gaby's Mediterranean Grill" alt="" address="10445 Venice Blvd." directions="at the intersection with Motor Ave" phone="+1-310-559-1808" email="" fax="" url="" hours="Open until 1:00AM on weekdays and 2:00AM on weekends" price="Meals are between $8 and $13" geo="" tags="">Reasonably priced and very tasty Lebanese restaurant. Seating is in an outdoor patio complete with hookahs, heat lamps, candles, and a bustling crowd that mixes young hipsters with Lebanese locals. Service is friendly and the place stays busy until closing.</eat>

* <eat name="Govinda's" alt="" address="3764 Watseka Ave" directions="" phone="" email="[email protected]" fax="" url="http://harekrishnala.com/govindasla/" hours="" price="">The unusual vegetarian restaurant operated as part of the hospitable and charitable tradition of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness. A buffet luncheon or sandwiches will cost you less than ten bucks. Above the restaurant you will find a boutique filled with fine garments and unusual handicrafts and art objects from India, the spiritual home of the Krishna devotees.</eat>

* <eat name="K-Zo" alt="" address="9240 Culver Blvd." directions="downtown" phone="+1-310-202-8890" email="" fax="" url="http://www.k-zo.com/" hours="" price="$6 - $15 for most sushi rolls and tapas items" geo="" tags="">Another restaurant born of Culver City's downtown renaissance, K-Zo is a sushi bar and "Japanese tapas" restaurant, offering various hot and cold bites in addition to the more standard Japanese fare. Prices are a bit higher than some other restaurants, but the food is generally excellent, service is friendly, and the atmosphere is great. For those seeking to maximize their eating dollar, the popcorn shrimp nuggets ($8.50) and eel avocado roll ($6) are particularly tasty and filling.</eat>

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* <eat name="K-Zo" alt="" address="9240 Culver Blvd" directions="downtown" phone="+1 310 202-8890" email="" fax="" url="http://www.k-zo.com" hours="" price="$6-$15 for most sushi rolls and tapas items" geo="" tags="">Another restaurant born of Culver City's downtown renaissance, K-Zo is a sushi bar and "Japanese tapas" restaurant, offering various hot and cold bites in addition to the more standard Japanese fare. Prices are a bit higher than some other restaurants, but the food is generally excellent, service is friendly, and the atmosphere is great. For those seeking to maximize their eating dollar, the popcorn shrimp nuggets ($8.50) and eel avocado roll ($6) are particularly tasty and filling.</eat>

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* <eat name="La Dijonnaise" alt="" address="8703 Washington Blvd." directions="in the Helms Bakery complex" phone="+1-310-287-2770" url="http://www.ladijonaise.com/" hours="" price="" lat="" long="" email="" fax="" geo="" tags="">Worth a visit if only to be served by waiters with authentic French accents, the cafe also offers excellent French cafe fare at reasonable prices. A few blocks from downtown on a corner of the old Helms Bakery complex; expect large crowds, with both indoor and outdoor seating.</eat>

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* <eat name="La Dijonnaise" alt="" address="8703 Washington Blvd" directions="in the Helms Bakery complex" phone="+1 310 287-2770" url="http://www.ladijonaise.com" hours="" price="" lat="" long="" email="" fax="" geo="" tags="">Worth a visit if only to be served by waiters with authentic French accents, the cafe also offers excellent French cafe fare at reasonable prices. A few blocks from downtown on a corner of the old Helms Bakery complex; expect large crowds, with both indoor and outdoor seating.</eat>

* <eat name="Tender Greens" alt="" address="9523 Culver Blvd" directions="downtown" phone="+1-310-842-8300" email="" fax="" url="http://www.tendergreensfood.com/" hours="Sunday Thursday 11:30AM to 9:00PM, Friday &amp; Saturday 11:30AM to 10:00PM" price="$5 and up" lat="" long="" geo="" tags="">As you might guess, the emphasis here is on the fresh salads of all types, but you can get them small, meal-sized or pair them with steak, chicken or fish. This popular eatery uses local, organic produce to assemble fresh and healthy salads and soups, as well as delectable hot dishes from the grill, such as free-range chicken, Angus flatiron steak, and line-caught tuna. This eco-conscious restaurant also uses biodegradable to-go containers, reclaimed timber, and non-toxic cleaners. The atmosphere is relaxed and beautiful, with a spacious patio for outdoor dining. Portions are large, and a wide array of boutique wines and microbrews will please any palate. Friendly service.</eat>

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* <eat name="Tender Greens" alt="" address="9523 Culver Blvd" directions="downtown" phone="+1 310 842-8300" email="" fax="" url="http://www.tendergreensfood.com" hours="Su-Th 11:30AM-9PM, F-Sa 11:30AM-10PM" price="$5 and up" lat="" long="" geo="" tags="">As you might guess, the emphasis here is on the fresh salads of all types, but you can get them small, meal-sized or pair them with steak, chicken or fish. This popular eatery uses local, organic produce to assemble fresh and healthy salads and soups, as well as delectable hot dishes from the grill, such as free-range chicken, Angus flatiron steak, and line-caught tuna. This eco-conscious restaurant also uses biodegradable to-go containers, reclaimed timber, and non-toxic cleaners. The atmosphere is relaxed and beautiful, with a spacious patio for outdoor dining. Portions are large, and a wide array of boutique wines and microbrews will please any palate. Friendly service.</eat>

*<eat name="Akasha Restaurant" alt="" address="9543 Culver Blvd" directions="Corner of Culver and Watseka" phone="310.845.1700" url="http://www.akasharestaurant.com" hours="" price="$15-$35" lat="" long="">Easily the best New American food in West Los Angeles. Everything is delicious, organic, and local. You'll never feel trendier but welcomed. If you're looking for a place to take a date, or business meeting, go here. Check out out in awesome bar, too.</eat>

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*<eat name="Akasha Restaurant" alt="" address="9543 Culver Blvd" directions="Corner of Culver and Watseka" phone="+1 310 845-1700" url="http://www.akasharestaurant.com" hours="" price="$15-$35" lat="" long="">Easily the best New American food in West Los Angeles. Everything is delicious, organic, and local. You'll never feel trendier but welcomed. If you're looking for a place to take a date, or business meeting, go here. Check out out in awesome bar, too.</eat>

* <eat name="Ford's Filling Station" alt="" address="9531 Culver Blvd" directions="downtown" phone="+1 310 202-1470" email="" fax="" url="http://www.fordsfillingstation.net" hours="" price="" geo="" tags="">Run by the son of actor Harrison Ford, this relatively new (February 2006) and somewhat trendy restaurant strives for a pub atmosphere while still keeping the quality of a high-end restaurant. The drinks are good if slightly pricey ($6 for a beer) and the food is excellent. Half of the menu consists of excellent home-cured deli meats for about $10 a tray, while the flatbreads and other dishes are slightly more expensive ($15 - $30) but very tasty.</eat>

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* <eat name="Ford's Filling Station" alt="" address="9531 Culver Blvd." directions="downtown" phone="+1-310-202-1470" email="" fax="" url="http://www.fordsfillingstation.net/" hours="" price="" geo="" tags="">Run by the son of actor Harrison Ford, this relatively new (February 2006) and somewhat trendy restaurant strives for a pub atmosphere while still keeping the quality of a high-end restaurant. The drinks are good if slightly pricey ($6 for a beer) and the food is excellent. Half of the menu consists of excellent home-cured deli meats for about $10 a tray, while the flatbreads and other dishes are slightly more expensive ($15 - $30) but very tasty.</eat>

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* <eat name="Libra Brazilian Steakhouse" alt="" address="3833 Main St" directions="" phone="+1-310-202-1300" email="[email protected]" fax="" url="http://www.librabrazilianbbq.com/" hours="" price="$30-$50">Like most Brazilian steakhouses, Libra features chefs going from table to table with skewers of meat and satisfied-yet-overstuffed patrons. However, this restaurant distinguishes itself with a high-quality "salad" bar featuring beef stew, chicken dishes, artichoke hearts, fried plantains, and other fare. The grilled meats (beef, lamb, pork and chicken) are very good although they don't rise to the level of "outstanding", but the service is excellent and the grilled cinnamon pineapple provides an offering not found at similar restaurants. At $35 per person for dinner the price may seem a bit steep, but there are early bird specials and numerous online coupons that can help to reduce costs, and lunch prices are much lower albeit with a reduced selection.</eat>

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* <eat name="Gyenari Korean Barbecue" alt="" address="9540 Washington Boulevard" directions="downtown Culver City" phone="+1 310-838-3131" email="[email protected]" fax="" url="http://www.gyenari.com/" hours="" price="$20-$50">Standard Korean barbecue in an upscale setting - diners can either order prepared meals off of the menu or grill meats at their table. A bar at the front of the restaurant offers a good spot to grab drinks and watch the game, and weekday happy hour with inexpensive appetizers helps take some of the burden off of the wallet.</eat>

Most of the downtown restaurants also have a lively bar scene. Other bars located throughout the city include:

Most of the downtown restaurants also have a lively bar scene. Other bars located throughout the city include:

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* <drink name="Backstage" alt="" address="10400 Culver Blvd." directions="near Culver and Overland at the intersection with Motor" phone="+1-310-839-3892" email="" fax="" url="http://www.backstageculvercity.com/" hours="" price="" geo="" tags="">Proudly advertising itself as "the best dive bar in the world" Backstage offers a high-energy atmosphere with a really fun crowd. Expect a packed house on weekends and call ahead to reserve a table if you don't want to be standing. Drinks are reasonably priced ($4 for a draft beer), the staff is extraordinarily friendly, and there is karaoke (Thursday - Saturday), pool, darts, and decent bar food to help keep the evening entertaining.</drink>

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* <drink name="Backstage" alt="" address="10400 Culver Blvd" directions="near Culver and Overland at the intersection with Motor" phone="+1 310 839-3892" email="" fax="" url="http://www.backstageculvercity.com" hours="" price="" geo="" tags="">Proudly advertising itself as "the best dive bar in the world" Backstage offers a high-energy atmosphere with a really fun crowd. Expect a packed house on weekends and call ahead to reserve a table if you don't want to be standing. Drinks are reasonably priced ($4 for a draft beer), the staff is extraordinarily friendly, and there is karaoke (Thursday - Saturday), pool, darts, and decent bar food to help keep the evening entertaining.</drink>

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* <drink name="Bottlerock" alt="" address="3847 Main Street" directions="downtown Culver City" phone="+1-310-836-WINE (9463)" email="" fax="" url="http://www.bottlerock.net/" hours="Su-Th 12PM - 11PM, Fr-Sa 12PM - 12AM" price="">Located downtown, this unique establishment is a combination wine bar, wine retailer, and cafe. Over 800 wines are sold, with prices ranging from $5 to over $600 per bottle, but most people come either for wine tasting or simply to enjoy a glass of wine with an appetizer. Happy hour is Monday - Thursday from 4PM to 6PM.</drink>

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* <drink name="Bottlerock" alt="" address="3847 Main St" directions="downtown Culver City" phone="+1 310 836-9463" email="" fax="" url="http://www.bottlerock.net" hours="Su-Th noon-11PM, F-Sa noon-midnight" price="">Located downtown, this unique establishment is a combination wine bar, wine retailer, and cafe. Over 800 wines are sold, with prices ranging from $5 to over $600 per bottle, but most people come either for wine tasting or simply to enjoy a glass of wine with an appetizer. Happy hour is Monday - Thursday from 4PM to 6PM.</drink>

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* <drink name="Duke's Hideaway" alt="" address="9400 Culver Blvd." directions="in the Culver Hotel downtown" phone="+1-310-838-7963" email="" fax="" url="http://www.culverhotel.com/" hours="" price="" geo="" tags="">Named after John Wayne (the hotel's former owner and resident), Duke's Hideaway attracts mainly local residents and employees from the nearby Sony and Culver Studios looking for a laid-back spot to enjoy a few drinks. Chairs are comfortable and plentiful, prices are reasonable, the bartenders tend to be chatty, it's usually not overly crowded, and the close proximity to the rest of downtown makes it a good spot to begin or end an evening. Happy hour 5 to 7:00PM M-Th.</drink>

+

* <drink name="Duke's Hideaway" alt="" address="9400 Culver Blvd" directions="in the Culver Hotel downtown" phone="+1 310 838-7963" email="" fax="" url="http://www.culverhotel.com" hours="" price="" geo="" tags="">Named after John Wayne (the hotel's former owner and resident), Duke's Hideaway attracts mainly local residents and employees from the nearby Sony and Culver Studios looking for a laid-back spot to enjoy a few drinks. Chairs are comfortable and plentiful, prices are reasonable, the bartenders tend to be chatty, it's usually not overly crowded, and the close proximity to the rest of downtown makes it a good spot to begin or end an evening. Happy hour 5 to 7:00PM M-Th.</drink>

−

* <drink name="Father's Office 2.0" alt="" address="3229 Helms Ave." directions="in the Helm's Bakery complex" phone="" email="" fax="" url="http://www.fathersoffice.com/" hours="" price="">This upscale pub is famous for its burger, just don't try to make any substitutions. There are also over 70 beers on tap.</drink>

+

* <drink name="Father's Office 2.0" alt="" address="3229 Helms Ave" directions="in the Helm's Bakery complex" phone="" email="" fax="" url="http://www.fathersoffice.com/" hours="" price="">This upscale pub is famous for its burger, just don't try to make any substitutions. There are also over 70 beers on tap.</drink>

−

* <drink name="Tattle Tale Room" alt="" address="5401 Sepulveda Blvd." directions="at the intersection of Sepulveda and Sawtelle" phone="" email="" fax="" url="" hours="" price="">The crowd at this bar combines students from Loyola Marymount with middle-aged regulars. Karaoke every night but Thursday, pool tables, and an atmosphere that borders on dive-bar without actually crossing the line.</drink>

+

* <drink name="Tattle Tale Room" alt="" address="5401 Sepulveda Blvd" directions="at the intersection of Sepulveda and Sawtelle" phone="" email="" fax="" url="" hours="" price="">The crowd at this bar combines students from Loyola Marymount with middle-aged regulars. Karaoke every night but Thursday, pool tables, and an atmosphere that borders on dive-bar without actually crossing the line.</drink>

===Coffee & Teas===

===Coffee & Teas===

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* <drink name="Conservatory for Coffee, Tea and Cocoa" alt="" address="10117 Washington Blvd." directions="across from Sony Studios" phone="+1-310-558-0436" email="" fax="" url="http://www.conservatorycoffeeandtea.com/" hours="" price="" geo="" tags="">Family-run coffee shop that roasts their own beans daily and makes one of the best macchiato's this side of the Big Pond. They are known for their "latte art" - you have to order one in a china cup to appreciate it. A local favorite, they also have a huge variety of teas from around the world and make a wonderful Mexican hot chocolate.</drink>

+

* <drink name="Conservatory for Coffee, Tea and Cocoa" alt="" address="10117 Washington Blvd" directions="across from Sony Studios" phone="+1 310 558-0436" email="" fax="" url="http://www.conservatorycoffeeandtea.com" hours="" price="" geo="" tags="">Family-run coffee shop that roasts their own beans daily and makes one of the best macchiato's this side of the Big Pond. They are known for their "latte art" - you have to order one in a china cup to appreciate it. A local favorite, they also have a huge variety of teas from around the world and make a wonderful Mexican hot chocolate.</drink>

==Sleep==

==Sleep==

−

Culver City has only a handful of hotels, but neighboring cities such as [[Santa Monica]], [[Venice]], [[Marina del Rey]] and [[El Segundo]] have numerous options within a 10-15 minute drive of Culver City.

+

Culver City has only a handful of hotels, but neighboring cities such as [[Santa Monica]], [[Venice (California)|Venice]], [[Marina del Rey]] and [[El Segundo]] have numerous options within a 10-15 minute drive of Culver City.

−

* <sleep name="Courtyard by Marriott Los Angeles Westside" alt="3 miles north of LAX" address="6333 Bristol Parkway." directions="Visible from the 405" phone="310-484-7000 or +1-800-321-2211" url="http://www.courtyardlawestside.com" checkin="" checkout="" price="Rates range from $139 for a room with two queen beds to $299 for a one-bedroom suite" lat="" long="" email="[email protected]" fax="310-590-2593" geo="" tags="">Opened April 2008, this hotel features 260 spacious rooms and suites in addition to 10,000 square feet of flexible meeting space and a full catering department.</sleep>

+

* <sleep name="Courtyard by Marriott Los Angeles Westside" alt="3 miles north of LAX" address="6333 Bristol Pkwy" directions="Visible from the 405" phone="+1 310 484-7000" tollfree="+1 800 321-2211" url="http://www.courtyardlawestside.com" checkin="" checkout="" price="Rates range from $139 for a room with two queen beds to $299 for a one-bedroom suite" lat="" long="" email="[email protected]" fax="+1 310 590-2593" geo="" tags="">Opened April 2008, this hotel features 260 spacious rooms and suites in addition to 10,000 square feet of flexible meeting space and a full catering department.</sleep>

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* <sleep name="Culver Hotel" alt="" address="9400 Culver Blvd." directions="downtown" phone="+1-888-328-5837 or +1-310-838-7963" email="" fax="" url="http://www.culverhotel.com/" hours="" price="$89 for a room with queen beds to $299 for the John Wayne Suite" geo="" tags="">Listed on the National Register of Historic Places and located in the heart of downtown Culver City, this hotel opened in 1924 and offers a unique lodging option with rooms featuring antique furniture. The hotel was once owned by John Wayne and served as accommodation for most of the cast of the Wizard of Oz during its filming.</sleep>

+

* <sleep name="Culver Hotel" alt="" address="9400 Culver Blvd" directions="downtown" phone="+1 310 838-7963" tollfree="+1 888 328-5837" email="" fax="" url="http://www.culverhotel.com" hours="" price="$89 for a room with queen beds to $299 for the John Wayne Suite" geo="" tags="">Listed on the National Register of Historic Places and located in the heart of downtown Culver City, this hotel opened in 1924 and offers a unique lodging option with rooms featuring antique furniture. The hotel was once owned by John Wayne and served as accommodation for most of the cast of the Wizard of Oz during its filming.</sleep>

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* <sleep name="Radisson Hotel Los Angeles Westside" alt="" address="6161 West Centinela Avenue" directions="" phone="+1-888-201-1718 or +1-310-649-1776" email="[email protected]" fax="+1-310-649-4411" url="http://www.radisson.com/culvercityca" hours="" price="Rates start around $130 per night" geo="" tags="">This chain hotel is located close to the 405 freeway and is a ten-minute drive from the LAX airport. Amenities include free high-speed internet access, pool, fitness center, free airport shuttle, meeting spaces and dining. Those expecting a five-star experience will be disappointed by the relatively basic rooms and somewhat dated elevators and floorplans, but despite a bit of age this hotel offers an upgrade over many of the area's other motels.</sleep>

+

* <sleep name="Radisson Hotel Los Angeles Westside" alt="" address="6161 W Centinela Ave" directions="" phone="+1 310 649-1776" tollfree="+1 888 201-1718" email="[email protected]" fax="+1 310 649-4411" url="http://www.radisson.com/culvercityca" hours="" price="Rates start around $130 per night" geo="" tags="">This chain hotel is located close to the 405 freeway and is a ten-minute drive from the LAX airport. Amenities include free high-speed internet access, pool, fitness center, free airport shuttle, meeting spaces and dining. Those expecting a five-star experience will be disappointed by the relatively basic rooms and somewhat dated elevators and floorplans, but despite a bit of age this hotel offers an upgrade over many of the area's other motels.</sleep>

Revision as of 10:04, 11 March 2014

Culver City[33] is on the West Side of Los Angeles County. The city is best known for film and TV production, including MGM studios, which is now part of Sony Pictures. Some of the most famous films of all time were shot here, including Citizen Kane, The Wizard of Oz, and Gone With the Wind, as well as the television series I Love Lucy, at Desilu Studios.

Pacific Theatres

Contents

Understand

Culver City was founded in 1913 by Harry Culver, a brilliant real estate developer from Nebraska who sold tract homes to "immigrants" from the Midwest. For a monthly mortgage payment, the homes included furniture, dishes, a record player, and sometimes even a Model T. In the 1920s, silent film comedy producer Hal Roach and Metro Goldwyn Mayer (MGM) built studios. By the 1930s, Culver City boasted three major film studios, including MGM, and was publicized as the "Heart of Screenland." During the 1930s through the 1940s Culver City was home to half of America's motion picture production.

Hundreds of movies have been produced on the lots of Culver City's studios, including the Tarzan series and the original King Kong. The yellow brick road from The Wizard of Oz is still inside the lot on Stage 27 of Sony Studios. More recent films include Grease, Raging Bull, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, City Slickers, Wag the Dog and Contact. Television shows made on Culver City sets include Lassie, I Love Lucy, Batman, The Andy Griffith Show and Jeopardy!.

Outside of the studios, Culver City is mostly comprised of middle class homes that were originally built to house studio workers, with street names reflecting this heritage, such as (Mary) Pickford and (Douglas) Fairbanks. The downtown area has been undergoing a rejuvenation since the late 1990s with new restaurants, art galleries, theaters and shops that attract a large number of visitors from the local area.

Get around

Be aware that Culver City has placed red-light cameras throughout the city, and at $446 the fine for running a red light is one of the highest in the country. Be very aware at intersections, and when the light turns yellow, STOP!

See

Attractions

Culver Studios, (downtown Culver City). Founded in 1919, fans of classic motion pictures will immediately recognize the studio's colonial mansion from the opening credits of the David O. Selznick International productions such as Gone With the Wind and Duel in the Sun. Unfortunately public tours are not available.

Museum of Jurassic Technology, 9341 Venice Blvd (four blocks west of Robertson Blvd), ☎+1 310 836-6131 ([email protected]), [1]. Th 2PM-8PM, F-Su noon-6PM. This museum is an artistic mixture of fact and fiction, featuring weird and wonderful displays of things that never happened, next to strange but true practices of bygone years. It can be hard to distinguish between the two, and it's best not to try. An enjoyable afternoon's visit and a tribute to the weirdness of the world. An upstairs tea room serves complimentary tea and cookies. Free movie screenings hourly. This attraction is actually in the Palms district of Los Angeles, although it has a Culver City address.$5 suggested donation.

Star Eco Station, 10101 West Jefferson Blvd (near the intersection of Jefferson & Overland), ☎+1 310 842-8060, [2]. F 1PM-5PM, Sa-Su 10AM-4PM. An exotic environmental science & wildlife rescue center that is in a nondescript building, the Eco Station is a hidden attraction offering hands-on experiences with rescued tropical birds, mammals, reptiles and other critters. Most of the facility's animals are illegal shipments seized by US customs that needed a home. Hands-on tours lasting from forty-five minutes to one and a half hours (depending on crowd size and the enthusiasm of the group) leave every half hour from 10AM-3PM on weekends and seven days a week in the summer. Hands-on opportunities as part of the tour. Special community events throughout the year. Appropriate for all age learners. Infants IN strollers - FREE.$8 for adults, $6 for children.

Public artwork

For the Child Care Center (in Palms) artist John Okulick created sculptural gates and fencing using the colors of "My First Sony" (red, yellow, blue). Margaret Nielsen designed a mural maquette for the Child Care Center (in Palms).

Terry Allen's sculpture "Golden Time" is a humorous comment on work after overtime. Michael Hayden's sculpture uses cutting edge materials (holographs) producing a rainbow spectrum on the sidewalk and surrounding areas of the Game Show Building. Hayden collaborated with Game Show Building architect, Steven Ehrlich, AIA, who won a National AIA Design Award for the project. (All in Culver City.)

A giant art installation, Syncopation, by Los Angeles artist Ed Massey, was wrapped around a building on the northwest corner of Hughes Ave. and Washington Blvd. (in Palms) opposite the new Kirk Douglas Theater (in Culver City). (Massey was the artist who oversaw the wrapping of the oil well at Beverly Hills High School with panels of fabric.)

Duck back into Dunn Drive to visit Los Angeles city historic-cultural landmark No. 624, the Lawrence and Martha Joseph Residence and Apartments at 3819-3827 Dunn Drive (in Palms). It's been aptly called the "Hobbit House," and people actually live in these unusual apartments.

Do

Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook, 6300 Hetzler Rd (off of Jefferson past Duquesne), [3]. 8AM-sunset daily. Over three hundred feet above the surrounding neighborhoods, this overlook provides tremendous views of the LA basin, as well as some short nature trails for those interested in native plants and animals. A self-pay parking lot is available at the top of the hill, but hearty souls can park for free along Jefferson and then walk up 315 vertical feet of switchbacks and steps. The visitor's center is open Th-Su 10AM-5PM (subject to the latest budget crisis), and special events including twilight walks and bird-watching are scheduled regularly.$6 for self-parking.

Culver City Farmer's Market, Main St and Bagley Ave (downtown between Venice and Culver Blvds), [4]. Tu 3PM-7PM. The market offers fresh foods, flowers, crafts, and other fare. Two hours of free parking are available in downtown garages. When you walk across the alley, you are actually moving from Los Angeles to Culver City (or vice versa).

Sony Pictures Studio Tour, ☎+1 310 244-8687, [5]. Formerly the MGM studios, the tour leads through stages that have seen the filming of such productions as the Wizard of Oz, Men in Black, and Spider-Man. Tours are offered M-F at 9:30AM, 10:30AM, 1:30PM and 2:30PM. Reservations are recommended.$28 per person.

Buy

Culver City offers a bit of everything when it comes to shopping. The Westfield Malls, located just off of I-405 at Sepulveda, is a 200 store mega-mall. The district near the intersection of Washington Blvd and La Cienaga Blvd is a major art destination, featuring dozens of galleries. The downtown area is home to several smaller and more upscale shops, as well as the old Helms Bakery complex, now home to a variety of upscale furniture stores. And for those looking for familiar shopping establishments, major chain stores such as Target, Bed Bath & Beyond, Best Buy and Toys 'R Us are also represented within the city limits.

Fox Hills Shopping Center, 294 Fox Hills Mall (at the intersection of Slauson and Sepulveda), ☎+1 310 390-5073 ([email protected]), [6]. M-F 10AM-9PM, Sa 10AM-8PM, Su 11AM-6PM. With nearly 200 stores, The Fox Hills Mall is a major shopping center located close to the 405 and 90 freeways. The complex underwent a major expansion in 2010 and now features a Target, Best Buy, Gold's Gym and BJ's Restaurant in addition to the many smaller stores.

Sorrento Italian Market, 5518 Sepulveda Blvd, ☎+1 310 391-7654. Owned by the former mayor (and current councilman) of Culver City, this market has a reputation as the place to go for authentic Italian grocery items on the West Side. The deli offers amazing sandwiches and the friendly family owners are more than willing to help with everything from selecting a wine to choosing a dessert.

C Vault, 8590 National Blvd, ☎+1 310 559-2435 (fax: +1 310 559-2436). M-F 10AM-5PM. Owned by the 'godfather of design' Joel Chen, C Vault is a new loft store carrying a significant and extensive collection of design, art and collectables from every era and by every designer imagineable from early 20th century via the Bauhaus to new emerging design talent. The loft has a strong spatial narrative with a series of vintage and modern room sets in which different pieces are juxtaposed so that they work and interact together. C Vault is a design lover's dream resource.

Eat

This guide uses the following price ranges for a typical meal for one, including soft drink:

Budget

Under $10

Mid-range

$10 - $20

Splurge

Over $20

During the past several years Culver City has been gaining a reputation for excellent restaurants, with the downtown area in particular becoming home to around twenty non-chain restaurants that offer everything from sushi to barbecue to Korean to organic fare. Other restaurants are spread throughout the city in areas such as Helm's Bakery or along Washington Boulevard. For those who just need a quick bite, the standard chains are well-represented including Denny's, Coco's, Jack in the Box, Taco Bell, Chipotle, and others.

Budget

Annapurna Cuisine, 10200 Venice Blvd, ☎+1 310 204-5500 ([email protected]), [7]. Su-Th 11AM-9PM, F-Sa 11AM-10PM, closed M. This Indian vegetarian restaurant serves up tasty South Indian dishes including a large selection of masala dosas. It's usually full of Indian families.Mains $6-10.

Grand Casino Bakery, 3820 Main St, ☎+1 310 202-6969. This is a simple, quaint little Argentine bakery. The Empanadas are delicious, and you can always find the big screen in the dining area tuned to a soccer match.

S&W Country Diner, 9748 Washington Blvd (at Hughes Ave), ☎+1 310 204-5136. Affordable, home-cooked style breakfast and lunch in a cozy, neighborhood diner. Food is good and portions are reasonably large, but be prepared for long lines in the mornings, especially on weekends. Cash only.$5-$10.

Tito's Tacos, 11222 Washington Pl (west of Sepulveda), ☎+1 310 391-5780. 9AM-11:30PM daily. Cheap (a full meal for under $5) and authentic Mexican food, individually prepared while you watch. You stand in line to order, then move aside to wait. Delicious and unusual. Noisy; you hear Spanish and English spoken here in equal amounts. Family-friendly. Park in the lot or under the freeway (feed the meters with dimes or quarters), not in the red cul-de-sac.

Gaby's Mediterranean Grill, 10445 Venice Blvd (at the intersection with Motor Ave), ☎+1 310 559-1808. Open until 1AM on weekdays and 2AM on weekends. Reasonably priced and very tasty Lebanese restaurant. Seating is in an outdoor patio complete with hookahs, heat lamps, candles, and a bustling crowd that mixes young hipsters with Lebanese locals. Service is friendly and the place stays busy until closing.Meals are between $8 and $13.

Govinda's, 3764 Watseka Ave, ([email protected]), [11]. The unusual vegetarian restaurant operated as part of the hospitable and charitable tradition of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness. A buffet luncheon or sandwiches will cost you less than ten bucks. Above the restaurant you will find a boutique filled with fine garments and unusual handicrafts and art objects from India, the spiritual home of the Krishna devotees.

J R's Bar-B-Que, 3055 La Cienega Blvd, ☎+1 310 837-6838, [12]. The industrial location is appropriate for a barbeque place that's "Tender as Mother's Love." Real pit barbecue beef ribs, pork ribs, "rib tips", great sides, and if you have room left, peach cobbler or 7-up cake! Three choices of sauce - they're serious when they say it's hot. The proprietor, "Robert Johnson", may or may not be the famous bluesman.

K-Zo, 9240 Culver Blvd (downtown), ☎+1 310 202-8890, [14]. Another restaurant born of Culver City's downtown renaissance, K-Zo is a sushi bar and "Japanese tapas" restaurant, offering various hot and cold bites in addition to the more standard Japanese fare. Prices are a bit higher than some other restaurants, but the food is generally excellent, service is friendly, and the atmosphere is great. For those seeking to maximize their eating dollar, the popcorn shrimp nuggets ($8.50) and eel avocado roll ($6) are particularly tasty and filling.$6-$15 for most sushi rolls and tapas items.

La Dijonnaise, 8703 Washington Blvd (in the Helms Bakery complex), ☎+1 310 287-2770, [15]. Worth a visit if only to be served by waiters with authentic French accents, the cafe also offers excellent French cafe fare at reasonable prices. A few blocks from downtown on a corner of the old Helms Bakery complex; expect large crowds, with both indoor and outdoor seating.

Tender Greens, 9523 Culver Blvd (downtown), ☎+1 310 842-8300, [17]. Su-Th 11:30AM-9PM, F-Sa 11:30AM-10PM. As you might guess, the emphasis here is on the fresh salads of all types, but you can get them small, meal-sized or pair them with steak, chicken or fish. This popular eatery uses local, organic produce to assemble fresh and healthy salads and soups, as well as delectable hot dishes from the grill, such as free-range chicken, Angus flatiron steak, and line-caught tuna. This eco-conscious restaurant also uses biodegradable to-go containers, reclaimed timber, and non-toxic cleaners. The atmosphere is relaxed and beautiful, with a spacious patio for outdoor dining. Portions are large, and a wide array of boutique wines and microbrews will please any palate. Friendly service.$5 and up.

Ugo, 3685 Cardiff Ave (downtown Culver City across the street from the theatre), ☎+1 310 204-1222 ([email protected], fax: +1 310 204-1992), [18]. A cozy Italian cafe with extensive outdoor seating and a reasonably-authentic Italian menu. This establishment specializes in Italian cafe food, so expect sandwiches, carpacchio, insalata, pasta, and gelato rather than the standard "spaghetti and steaks" fare common at most Italian restaurants.$10-$30.

Splurge

Akasha Restaurant, 9543 Culver Blvd (Corner of Culver and Watseka), ☎+1 310 845-1700, [19]. Easily the best New American food in West Los Angeles. Everything is delicious, organic, and local. You'll never feel trendier but welcomed. If you're looking for a place to take a date, or business meeting, go here. Check out out in awesome bar, too.$15-$35.

Ford's Filling Station, 9531 Culver Blvd (downtown), ☎+1 310 202-1470, [20]. Run by the son of actor Harrison Ford, this relatively new (February 2006) and somewhat trendy restaurant strives for a pub atmosphere while still keeping the quality of a high-end restaurant. The drinks are good if slightly pricey ($6 for a beer) and the food is excellent. Half of the menu consists of excellent home-cured deli meats for about $10 a tray, while the flatbreads and other dishes are slightly more expensive ($15 - $30) but very tasty.

Libra Brazilian Steakhouse, 3833 Main St, ☎+1-310-202-1300 ([email protected]), [21]. Like most Brazilian steakhouses, Libra features chefs going from table to table with skewers of meat and satisfied-yet-overstuffed patrons. However, this restaurant distinguishes itself with a high-quality "salad" bar featuring beef stew, chicken dishes, artichoke hearts, fried plantains, and other fare. The grilled meats (beef, lamb, pork and chicken) are very good although they don't rise to the level of "outstanding", but the service is excellent and the grilled cinnamon pineapple provides an offering not found at similar restaurants. At $35 per person for dinner the price may seem a bit steep, but there are early bird specials and numerous online coupons that can help to reduce costs, and lunch prices are much lower albeit with a reduced selection.$30-$50.

Waterloo & City, 12517 West Washington Blvd (near Washington & Centinela), ☎+1-310-391-4222, [22]. M–Sa 6-10PM, Su 5-9PM (Dinner). Su-Th 5-Midnight, F-Sa 5PM-1AM (Bar). This upscale pub combines French/British fusion cuisine with an impressive wine and beer list - beer connoisseurs will love the selection while those who prefer Buddweiser might prefer going elsewhere. It is named for the London underground railway line where the co-owner/chef began his youthful world adventures. Staff is attentive, intelligent and friendly, and while portions aren't huge the food is extremely well prepared. Favorites include the sticky toffee pudding. Daily happy hour from 5-7PM.$15-$30 for meals.

Drink

Bars

Most of the downtown restaurants also have a lively bar scene. Other bars located throughout the city include:

Backstage, 10400 Culver Blvd (near Culver and Overland at the intersection with Motor), ☎+1 310 839-3892, [23]. Proudly advertising itself as "the best dive bar in the world" Backstage offers a high-energy atmosphere with a really fun crowd. Expect a packed house on weekends and call ahead to reserve a table if you don't want to be standing. Drinks are reasonably priced ($4 for a draft beer), the staff is extraordinarily friendly, and there is karaoke (Thursday - Saturday), pool, darts, and decent bar food to help keep the evening entertaining.

Bottlerock, 3847 Main St (downtown Culver City), ☎+1 310 836-9463, [24]. Su-Th noon-11PM, F-Sa noon-midnight. Located downtown, this unique establishment is a combination wine bar, wine retailer, and cafe. Over 800 wines are sold, with prices ranging from $5 to over $600 per bottle, but most people come either for wine tasting or simply to enjoy a glass of wine with an appetizer. Happy hour is Monday - Thursday from 4PM to 6PM.

Duke's Hideaway, 9400 Culver Blvd (in the Culver Hotel downtown), ☎+1 310 838-7963, [25]. Named after John Wayne (the hotel's former owner and resident), Duke's Hideaway attracts mainly local residents and employees from the nearby Sony and Culver Studios looking for a laid-back spot to enjoy a few drinks. Chairs are comfortable and plentiful, prices are reasonable, the bartenders tend to be chatty, it's usually not overly crowded, and the close proximity to the rest of downtown makes it a good spot to begin or end an evening. Happy hour 5 to 7:00PM M-Th.

Father's Office 2.0, 3229 Helms Ave (in the Helm's Bakery complex), [26]. This upscale pub is famous for its burger, just don't try to make any substitutions. There are also over 70 beers on tap.

Tattle Tale Room, 5401 Sepulveda Blvd (at the intersection of Sepulveda and Sawtelle). The crowd at this bar combines students from Loyola Marymount with middle-aged regulars. Karaoke every night but Thursday, pool tables, and an atmosphere that borders on dive-bar without actually crossing the line.

Coffee & Teas

Conservatory for Coffee, Tea and Cocoa, 10117 Washington Blvd (across from Sony Studios), ☎+1 310 558-0436, [27]. Family-run coffee shop that roasts their own beans daily and makes one of the best macchiato's this side of the Big Pond. They are known for their "latte art" - you have to order one in a china cup to appreciate it. A local favorite, they also have a huge variety of teas from around the world and make a wonderful Mexican hot chocolate.

Sleep

Courtyard by Marriott Los Angeles Westside (3 miles north of LAX), 6333 Bristol Pkwy (Visible from the 405), ☎+1 310 484-7000 (toll free: +1 800 321-2211, [email protected], fax: +1 310 590-2593), [28]. Opened April 2008, this hotel features 260 spacious rooms and suites in addition to 10,000 square feet of flexible meeting space and a full catering department.Rates range from $139 for a room with two queen beds to $299 for a one-bedroom suite.

Culver Hotel, 9400 Culver Blvd (downtown), ☎+1 310 838-7963 (toll free: +1 888 328-5837), [29]. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places and located in the heart of downtown Culver City, this hotel opened in 1924 and offers a unique lodging option with rooms featuring antique furniture. The hotel was once owned by John Wayne and served as accommodation for most of the cast of the Wizard of Oz during its filming.$89 for a room with queen beds to $299 for the John Wayne Suite.

Radisson Hotel Los Angeles Westside, 6161 W Centinela Ave, ☎+1 310 649-1776 (toll free: +1 888 201-1718, [email protected], fax: +1 310 649-4411), [30]. This chain hotel is located close to the 405 freeway and is a ten-minute drive from the LAX airport. Amenities include free high-speed internet access, pool, fitness center, free airport shuttle, meeting spaces and dining. Those expecting a five-star experience will be disappointed by the relatively basic rooms and somewhat dated elevators and floorplans, but despite a bit of age this hotel offers an upgrade over many of the area's other motels.Rates start around $130 per night.

Get out

Venice. The neighboring beach town offers miles of sand, an eclectic nightlife, and the infamous Muscle Beach.

Santa Monica. Best known for its famous pier, Santa Monica is a must-see destination for most tourists, and home to many restaurants and bars frequented by locals.

Marina del Rey. The "marina of the king" is home to a vast number of restaurants and hotels, and while not as touristy as some of the neighboring beach cities is nonetheless a fun spot to spend an evening.

West LA. The west side of the sprawling city of LA surrounds Culver City to the north and east.